Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A system comprising: a processor associated with a vehicle, the processor having: inputs comprising: static map data; and dynamic data obtained from a sensor on the vehicle; outputs comprising: a route to be driven through a road network to reach a goal position; a continually updated choice of a selected stopping place in a vicinity of the goal position, the selected stopping place being selected from a plurality of potential stopping places in response to the selected stopping place having a score that is higher than corresponding scores of other potential stopping places among the plurality of potential stopping places, wherein: the selected stopping place is updated based on infeasibility of the selected stopping place, wherein the infeasibility of the selected stopping place is based on an amount of time elapsed since a potential stopping place was determined to be infeasible for parking stopping exceeding a first threshold value, a reason for the determination that the potential stopping place is infeasible for stopping, and at least one of a historical level of demand for parking in a vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a second threshold value or traffic volume in the vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a third threshold value; and the continual updating of the choice of the selected stopping place comprises: recalculating the score of the selected stopping place and the corresponding scores of other potential stopping places among the plurality of potential stopping places, and modifying the choice of the selected stopping place to another stopping place among the plurality of potential stopping places that has a highest recalculated score; a trajectory to be traveled by the vehicle through the road network to reach the selected stopping place; and a communication element that: communicates information about the updated choice of the selected stopping place to a device in the vehicle; receives from the device information about the goal position and a criterion for evaluating the stopping place; and delivers the information to the processor as an input.
The system involves a vehicle-based processor that navigates a vehicle through a road network to a goal position while dynamically selecting and updating an optimal stopping place, such as a parking spot, near the destination. The processor uses static map data and real-time sensor data to evaluate multiple potential stopping places, assigning scores based on factors like parking feasibility, historical demand, and traffic volume. If a selected stopping place becomes infeasible—due to elapsed time, low demand, or traffic conditions—the system recalculates scores and selects a new stopping place with the highest score. The processor also generates a route to the goal and a trajectory to the chosen stopping place. A communication element relays updates about the selected stopping place to a device in the vehicle and receives user inputs, such as the goal position and evaluation criteria, to refine the selection process. The system ensures continuous optimization of parking choices, improving efficiency and reducing driver effort in finding suitable parking.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the processor updates the selection of the stopping place based on the information from the device about the stopping place; the score is a weighted combination of factors comprising a walking distance to the goal position from the selected stopping place, portion of the walking distance that is covered, clarity of sightline from the selected stopping place to the goal position, distance of the selected stopping place from a curb, whether the selected stopping place is a designated stopping area, and a type of activity for which the vehicle needs to stop at the selected stopping place.
This invention relates to autonomous vehicle navigation systems that optimize stopping place selection for passenger drop-off or pick-up. The system addresses the challenge of determining the most suitable stopping location by evaluating multiple factors to enhance convenience, safety, and efficiency. The processor dynamically updates the selected stopping place based on real-time data from the vehicle's sensors or other devices, ensuring adaptability to changing conditions. The system calculates a score for each potential stopping place using a weighted combination of factors, including walking distance to the goal position, the portion of that distance already covered, sightline clarity to the goal, proximity to a curb, whether the location is a designated stopping area, and the type of activity (e.g., passenger drop-off or pick-up). By integrating these factors, the system selects the optimal stopping place that balances passenger convenience, safety, and compliance with local regulations. The invention improves upon traditional navigation systems by providing a more context-aware and adaptive solution for autonomous vehicle operations.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the communication element communicates to the device that the processor has selected a stopping place; and the score is compared with each of the corresponding scores of other potential stopping places by applying fuzzy logic.
This invention relates to a system for selecting optimal stopping places, such as in autonomous navigation or route planning. The system addresses the challenge of determining the best stopping location by evaluating multiple potential stopping places and selecting one based on a calculated score. The system includes a processor that evaluates potential stopping places and assigns a score to each based on predefined criteria, such as safety, convenience, or efficiency. A communication element then transmits the selected stopping place to a device, such as a vehicle or navigation system, to guide it to the chosen location. The system further compares the score of the selected stopping place with the scores of other potential stopping places using fuzzy logic, which allows for more nuanced decision-making by handling imprecise or uncertain data. This comparison helps refine the selection process, ensuring the chosen stopping place is optimal under the given conditions. The system may also include a memory for storing data related to stopping places and a user interface for receiving input or displaying results. The overall goal is to improve decision-making in navigation by dynamically assessing and selecting the best stopping location.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication that a stopping place farther from the goal position would be acceptable.
A system for route guidance and navigation receives information from a user device indicating that a stopping place farther from a goal position would be acceptable. The system determines a route from a starting position to the goal position, where the route includes at least one stopping place along the way. The system identifies multiple potential stopping places based on user preferences, environmental conditions, or other factors, and selects a stopping place that is farther from the goal position than the closest possible stopping place. The system then provides navigation instructions to guide the user from the starting position to the selected stopping place and subsequently to the goal position. The system may adjust the selection of the stopping place in real-time based on updated information, such as traffic conditions, user preferences, or changes in environmental factors. The system may also prioritize stopping places that offer additional services or amenities, such as rest areas, fuel stations, or dining options, to enhance the user experience. The system ensures that the selected stopping place is still within a reasonable distance from the goal position to maintain efficiency while accommodating the user's preference for a more distant stopping location.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication of a maximum acceptable distance.
A system for managing device connectivity includes a server that receives information from a device, where the information includes an indication of a maximum acceptable distance. The server determines whether the device is within the maximum acceptable distance of a target location and selectively establishes a connection with the device based on this determination. The system may also include a database storing location data for multiple devices and a processor that compares the device's location to the target location to assess proximity. The server may further adjust connection parameters, such as bandwidth or latency, based on the distance to optimize performance. The system ensures that devices only connect when within a predefined range, improving resource allocation and security. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently managing device connectivity in environments where proximity is a critical factor, such as in IoT networks or location-based services. By dynamically assessing distance and adjusting connectivity accordingly, the system enhances reliability and reduces unnecessary data transmission.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication of a new goal position to be considered by the processor.
A system for managing device operations includes a processor that receives information from a device, where the received information includes an indication of a new goal position to be considered by the processor. The system is designed to process and utilize this new goal position to adjust or optimize the device's performance. The processor may analyze the new goal position in relation to the device's current state, historical data, or predefined parameters to determine appropriate actions. These actions could include adjusting operational settings, recalibrating the device, or initiating a sequence of operations to achieve the desired goal position. The system may also include feedback mechanisms to verify whether the new goal position is successfully attained or to make further adjustments as needed. This approach allows for dynamic and adaptive control of the device, ensuring it operates efficiently and meets specified performance criteria. The system is particularly useful in applications where precise positioning or real-time adjustments are critical, such as in robotics, automation, or industrial control systems.
7. The system of claim 1 in which the information received from the device includes an indication that further time spent searching for an acceptable stopping place would be acceptable.
A system for optimizing vehicle stopping decisions during autonomous or semi-autonomous driving. The system addresses the challenge of determining when to stop a vehicle in dynamic environments, such as when searching for a suitable parking spot or safe stopping location. Traditional systems may either stop prematurely or delay unnecessarily, leading to inefficiencies or safety risks. The system receives real-time data from vehicle sensors or external devices, including an indication that additional time spent searching for an acceptable stopping place is permissible. This allows the system to extend the search duration when conditions permit, improving the likelihood of finding an optimal stopping location. The system also evaluates environmental factors, such as traffic conditions, road geometry, and available parking spaces, to make informed stopping decisions. By dynamically adjusting search parameters based on received inputs, the system enhances both efficiency and safety in autonomous vehicle operations. The invention ensures that stopping decisions align with user preferences and situational constraints, reducing unnecessary delays while maintaining safety.
8. A computer-implemented method, comprising: obtaining, by a processor associated with a vehicle, inputs comprising: static map data; and dynamic data obtained from a sensor on the vehicle; generating, by the processor, outputs comprising: a route to be driven through a road network to reach a goal position; a continually updated choice of a selected stopping place in a vicinity of the goal position, wherein the selected stopping place is updated based on infeasibility of the selected stopping place, wherein the infeasibility of the selected stopping place is based on an amount of time elapsed since a potential stopping place was determined to be infeasible for parking stopping exceeding a first threshold value, a reason for the determination that the potential stopping place is infeasible for stopping, and at least one of a historical level of demand for parking in a vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a second threshold value or traffic volume in the vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a third threshold value, the selected stopping place being selected from a plurality of potential stopping places when the selected stopping place has a score that is higher than corresponding scores of other potential stopping places among the plurality of potential stopping places; a trajectory to be traveled by the vehicle through the road network to reach the selected stopping place; and communicating, by a communication element associated with the vehicle, information about the updated choice of the selected stopping place to a device in the vehicle; receiving, by the communication element and from the device, information about the goal position and a criterion for evaluating the stopping place; and delivering, by the communication element and to the processor, the information as an input.
This invention relates to an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle navigation system that dynamically selects and updates optimal parking locations based on real-time and historical data. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently navigating to a destination while identifying and adjusting for suitable parking spots, considering factors like availability, demand, and traffic conditions. The method involves a vehicle processor obtaining static map data and dynamic sensor data to generate navigation outputs. It calculates a route to a goal position and continuously evaluates potential parking spots in the vicinity. The system updates the selected parking spot if the current choice becomes infeasible, determining infeasibility based on elapsed time since a spot was deemed unavailable, the reason for its unavailability, and factors like low historical parking demand or low traffic volume. The selected spot is chosen from multiple candidates based on a scoring mechanism that prioritizes higher-scoring options. The system also generates a trajectory to the selected parking spot and communicates updates to an in-vehicle device. It receives user inputs, such as the goal position and parking criteria, and delivers this information back to the processor for further processing. This approach ensures adaptive, data-driven parking spot selection to optimize navigation efficiency.
9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the selected stopping place is updated based on non-feasibility of the selected stopping place.
This invention relates to computer-implemented methods for optimizing route planning, particularly for autonomous vehicles or navigation systems. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust stopping places along a route when the initially selected stopping place becomes unfeasible due to real-time constraints such as traffic, road closures, or other obstacles. The method involves selecting an initial stopping place along a route based on predefined criteria, such as distance, time, or resource availability. If the selected stopping place becomes unfeasible—meaning it can no longer be reached or used as intended—the system updates the stopping place to a new feasible location. This update may involve recalculating the route, reassessing available options, or integrating real-time data to determine an alternative stopping place that meets the original criteria as closely as possible. The method ensures that route planning remains adaptive and resilient to changing conditions, improving efficiency and reliability in navigation systems. By dynamically adjusting stopping places, the system avoids disruptions and maintains optimal performance even when initial plans are no longer viable. This approach is particularly useful in autonomous driving, logistics, and other applications where real-time adaptability is critical.
10. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the processor updates the selection of a stopping place based on the information from the device about the stopping place.
A computer-implemented method for dynamically adjusting stopping places in a navigation system. The method addresses the problem of static or suboptimal stopping place selections in navigation systems, which can lead to inefficient routing or user dissatisfaction. The system uses a processor to update the selection of a stopping place based on real-time information received from a device associated with the stopping place. This information may include availability, occupancy, or other relevant data that affects the suitability of the stopping place. The processor evaluates this data to determine whether the current stopping place selection should be modified, ensuring that the chosen stopping place remains optimal for the user's needs. The method may also involve receiving user preferences or constraints, such as time constraints or specific requirements for the stopping place, to further refine the selection. By continuously updating the stopping place selection based on real-time data, the system improves navigation efficiency and user experience. The method is particularly useful in applications where stopping places, such as parking spots or charging stations, must be dynamically managed to accommodate changing conditions.
11. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the communication element communicates to the device that the processor has selected a stopping place.
A computer-implemented method involves selecting a stopping place for a device, such as a vehicle or robotic system, and communicating this selection to the device. The method includes processing sensor data to determine a suitable stopping location, which may involve analyzing environmental conditions, obstacle detection, or user preferences. Once the stopping place is identified, a communication element transmits this information to the device, enabling it to navigate to and halt at the designated location. The communication may include coordinates, path instructions, or other relevant data to ensure precise positioning. This method is particularly useful in autonomous systems where accurate stopping is critical for safety or operational efficiency. The stopping place selection may be based on predefined criteria, real-time adjustments, or predictive algorithms to optimize performance. The communication element ensures seamless coordination between the processing system and the device, allowing for dynamic and responsive control. This approach enhances automation in environments where precise stopping is necessary, such as in autonomous vehicles, drones, or industrial robots.
12. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication that a stopping place farther from the goal position would be acceptable.
A computer-implemented method for optimizing navigation routes based on user preferences involves receiving information from a device, such as a mobile phone or navigation system, to determine acceptable deviations from a predefined goal position. The method processes this information to identify alternative stopping places that are farther from the goal but still meet the user's criteria, such as avoiding traffic, reducing travel time, or accommodating personal preferences. The system then adjusts the navigation route accordingly, providing directions to the selected stopping place while ensuring the user remains within an acceptable range of the original goal. This approach enhances flexibility in navigation by allowing users to specify tolerance levels for deviations, improving efficiency and user satisfaction. The method may also integrate real-time data, such as traffic conditions or road closures, to further refine route suggestions. By dynamically adjusting routes based on user-defined parameters, the system provides a more personalized and adaptive navigation experience.
13. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication of a maximum acceptable distance.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing device interactions based on proximity. The method addresses the challenge of ensuring secure and efficient communication between devices by dynamically adjusting interactions based on distance constraints. The system receives information from a device, including an indication of a maximum acceptable distance for communication. This distance parameter is used to determine whether the device should engage in data exchange or other interactions with another device. The method evaluates the current distance between the devices and compares it to the specified maximum acceptable distance. If the distance exceeds the threshold, the system may restrict or modify the interaction to maintain security or operational efficiency. The method may also involve continuous monitoring of the distance to dynamically adjust interactions as the devices move relative to each other. This approach ensures that communication remains within predefined safety or performance limits, enhancing reliability and security in proximity-based applications. The system may be applied in various contexts, such as IoT networks, mobile device pairing, or access control systems, where distance-based restrictions are critical.
14. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the information received from the device comprises an indication of a new goal position to be considered by the processor.
A system and method for dynamic goal adjustment in automated processes involves a processor that receives information from a device, where the information includes an indication of a new goal position to be considered. The processor evaluates this new goal position and adjusts its operations accordingly. The system is designed to handle automated tasks where goals may change during execution, ensuring flexibility and adaptability. The processor may compare the new goal position with existing parameters, such as current state, constraints, or historical data, to determine the appropriate response. This allows the system to modify its behavior in real-time, improving efficiency and accuracy in dynamic environments. The method ensures that the processor can seamlessly integrate new objectives without disrupting ongoing operations, making it suitable for applications like robotics, industrial automation, or adaptive control systems. The system may also include validation steps to confirm the feasibility of the new goal before implementation, ensuring robustness. This approach enhances the system's ability to respond to changing conditions, reducing errors and improving overall performance.
15. The computer-implemented method of claim 8 , wherein the information received from the device includes an indication that further time spent searching for an acceptable stopping place would be acceptable.
This invention relates to computer-implemented methods for optimizing search processes, particularly in scenarios where a device must locate an acceptable stopping place. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in search algorithms that terminate prematurely or waste excessive time searching for an ideal stopping point, leading to suboptimal performance. The invention improves upon this by incorporating a dynamic decision-making process that evaluates whether additional search time is justified based on the device's current state and environmental conditions. The method involves receiving information from a device, including an indication that further time spent searching for an acceptable stopping place would be beneficial. This information may include sensor data, computational constraints, or environmental factors that influence the search process. The system then adjusts the search parameters or criteria in real-time to either extend the search duration or refine the stopping conditions, ensuring a balance between thoroughness and efficiency. The invention may also integrate feedback mechanisms to continuously assess the search progress and adapt the stopping criteria accordingly. This approach enhances the reliability and accuracy of the search process while minimizing unnecessary computational overhead. The method is particularly useful in autonomous systems, robotics, or any application requiring dynamic decision-making in search-based operations.
16. A non-transitory computer storage medium encoded with a computer program, the computer program storing instructions that when executed by one or more computers cause the one or more computers to perform operations comprising: obtaining, by a processor associated with a vehicle, inputs comprising: static map data; and dynamic data obtained from a sensor on the vehicle; generating, by the processor, outputs comprising: a route to be driven through a road network to reach a goal position; a continually updated choice of a selected stopping place in a vicinity of the goal position, wherein the selected stopping place is updated based on infeasibility of the selected stopping place, wherein the infeasibility of the selected stopping place is based on an amount of time elapsed since a potential stopping place was determined to be infeasible for parking stopping exceeding a first threshold value, a reason for the determination that the potential stopping place is infeasible for stopping, and at least one of a historical level of demand for parking in a vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a second threshold value or traffic volume in the vicinity of the potential stopping place being less than a third threshold value, the selected stopping place being selected from a plurality of potential stopping places in response to the selected stopping place having a score that is higher than corresponding scores of other potential stopping places among the plurality of potential stopping places; a trajectory to be traveled by the vehicle through the road network to reach the selected stopping place; communicating, by a communication element associated with the vehicle, information about the updated choice of the selected stopping place to a device in the vehicle; receiving, by the communication element and from the device, information about the goal position and a criterion for evaluating the stopping place; and delivering, by the communication element and to the processor, the information as an input.
This invention relates to an autonomous vehicle navigation system that dynamically selects and updates optimal parking locations based on real-time and historical data. The system uses static map data and dynamic sensor inputs from the vehicle to generate a route to a goal position and continuously evaluates potential parking spots in the vicinity of that goal. The system assesses the feasibility of each potential stopping place by considering factors such as time elapsed since a spot was deemed infeasible, historical parking demand, and traffic volume. If a spot is determined to be infeasible, it is reassessed based on predefined thresholds for demand and traffic. The system selects the highest-scoring parking spot from available options and generates a trajectory to reach it. The vehicle's communication system relays updates about the selected parking spot to an onboard device, which can also provide the goal position and evaluation criteria back to the system. This approach ensures efficient and adaptive parking location selection, improving navigation accuracy and user experience in autonomous driving scenarios.
17. The non-transitory computer storage medium of claim 16 , wherein the selected stopping place is updated based on non-feasibility of the selected stopping place.
A system for optimizing vehicle stopping locations during autonomous driving involves selecting a stopping place for a vehicle based on a set of stopping criteria, such as safety, comfort, and efficiency. The system evaluates potential stopping places along a planned path and selects the most suitable one. If the selected stopping place is later determined to be non-feasible—due to changes in traffic conditions, obstacles, or other dynamic factors—the system updates the stopping place to a new feasible location. This update ensures the vehicle can safely and efficiently come to a stop, even if initial conditions change. The system may use real-time sensor data, map information, and predictive algorithms to assess feasibility and adjust the stopping place accordingly. The goal is to improve autonomous vehicle performance by dynamically adapting to real-world driving scenarios while maintaining safety and passenger comfort.
18. The non-transitory computer storage medium of claim 16 , wherein the processor updates the selection of a stopping place based on the information from the device about the stopping place.
A system and method for dynamically updating stopping places in a navigation or route planning application. The technology addresses the problem of static or outdated stopping place data, which can lead to inefficient routes or missed opportunities for optimal stops. The invention involves a processor that receives information from a device about a stopping place, such as a rest area, charging station, or point of interest, and updates the selection of a stopping place based on this information. The stopping place may be part of a route plan, and the update can adjust the route to include or exclude the stopping place based on real-time data. The system may also consider factors like availability, user preferences, or environmental conditions when updating the selection. This ensures that the route remains optimized for the user's needs, improving efficiency and convenience. The invention may be used in navigation systems, electric vehicle charging networks, or logistics planning to provide dynamic and adaptive route planning.
19. The non-transitory computer storage medium of claim 16 , wherein the communication element communicates to the device that the processor has selected a stopping place.
A system for managing digital content playback includes a processor that selects a stopping place within a digital content file, such as a video or audio file, based on predefined criteria. The stopping place is a specific point in the content where playback can be paused or terminated. The system also includes a communication element that transmits a signal to a device, such as a media player or user interface, indicating that the processor has selected a stopping place. This allows the device to automatically pause playback or perform another action at the designated stopping place. The stopping place may be determined based on factors such as content structure, user preferences, or external triggers. The system ensures that playback stops at an appropriate point, enhancing user experience by avoiding abrupt interruptions or incomplete content delivery. The communication element may use wired or wireless protocols to relay the stopping place selection to the device, enabling seamless integration with existing playback systems. This technology is useful in applications where precise control over content playback is required, such as educational software, media streaming services, or automated content delivery systems.
Unknown
December 8, 2020
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